Overview
Trying to import leads into La Growth Machine but your CSV file is being rejected? In most cases, the issue comes from the file encoding.
La Growth Machine only accepts CSV files encoded in UTF-8.
This guide explains what CSV UTF-8 means and how to convert your file depending on the tool you’re using.
Key benefits
Avoid import errors caused by incorrect encoding
Ensure full compatibility with La Growth Machine
Preserve special characters (accents, symbols, international languages)
Save time when importing your leads
Understanding CSV UTF-8
CSV (Comma-Separated Values)
A CSV file is a spreadsheet-type file where data values are separated by commas or semicolons.
UTF-8
UTF-8 is a universal character encoding designed to represent all characters (accents, symbols, and international alphabets).
Important: Without UTF-8 encoding, you may encounter
Broken or unreadable characters
Incorrectly parsed fields
A failed import in La Growth Machine
How to convert a file to CSV UTF-8
From Apple Numbers
Click File
Select Export To → CSV
Open Advanced Options
Choose Unicode (UTF-8)
From Google Sheets
Click File
Go to Download
Select Comma-separated values (.csv)
Google Sheets automatically exports files in UTF-8.
From Microsoft Excel
Click File
Select Save As
Choose CSV UTF-8 (Comma delimited) (*.csv)
Tip: Do not select the standard “CSV” format. Make sure it’s CSV UTF-8, otherwise the encoding may be incorrect.
Best practices before importing
Important:
Make sure your file is saved as .csv
Double-check that the UTF-8 encoding is applied
Avoid unnecessary special characters in column headers
Always keep a backup of your original file
FAQs
Why does La Growth Machine require UTF-8 format?
Why does La Growth Machine require UTF-8 format?
To ensure correct data parsing and prevent issues with special characters.
Is Google Sheets always compatible?
Is Google Sheets always compatible?
Yes. CSV exports from Google Sheets are always encoded in UTF-8.
Can I convert an existing CSV file to UTF-8?
Can I convert an existing CSV file to UTF-8?
Yes, simply re-save it using Excel, Numbers, or any UTF-8–compatible editor.
What happens if my file isn’t in UTF-8?
What happens if my file isn’t in UTF-8?
The import may fail or result in corrupted data.